Author Archives: smithssgwo

OSU Extension aids vegetable farmers exploring Asian crops

Vegetable farmers in Oregon’s Willamette Valley face growing pressure to stay profitable. Labor shortages, high costs and new regulations have added challenges for producers already competing with low-priced imports. At the same time, acreage in processed vegetables has declined as consumer demand shifts toward fresh, locally grown foods and herbs. Farmers need new crop optionsContinue reading “OSU Extension aids vegetable farmers exploring Asian crops”

RFP for Research Projects Now Available-Due 10/8/25

SSGWO has released its Request for Research Proposals for the 2026-27 funding cycle. Proposals are due October 8, 2025. Preferred projects would benefit the specialty seed industry in general, but specifically: Symphylan control Irrigation methods Weed control/herbicide resistance Diamondback moth control Seed corn maggot control Non-chemical weed management tools

Beekeepers, growers benefiting from Bee Protection Protocols

A program for three crops in Oregon is patterned after an arrangement between California almond growers and bee producers. Mitch LiesWestern Farm PressMay 16, 2025 Veteran Oregon beekeeper Harry Vanderpool remembers days when it appeared some farmers weren’t over concern about the health of his bees. “I wondered in a few instances if the growersContinue reading “Beekeepers, growers benefiting from Bee Protection Protocols”

Bee Protection Protocol

If you weren’t at the member meeting on Feb. 5, you will want this information – the SSGWO Bee Protection Protocol. You can get more information on the Oregon Bee Project at oregonbeeproject.org or request a PDF by emailing angie@pacwestresources.com.